Israel said to tell skeptical US, Gulf countries that Iran may use chemical weapons

Israeli intelligence has reportedly warned the United States that Iran may be planning to use chemical weapons against its enemies. However, American officials are divided over the credibility of this intelligence and its implications for regional security. Some senior US officials expressed concern while others dismissed it as part of a political strategy by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's government to push for a resumption of military conflict against Iran.

Israeli officials told their American counterparts that Iran is rapidly advancing its capability to mount chemical weapons on missiles or smuggle them into Israel or other countries. The Israeli intelligence community believes Iran is developing technology to deploy chemical weapons, but there is disagreement about whether Iranian leaders would actually use them, particularly if Iran is not attacked again by the West.

Some Gulf officials questioned the Israeli chemical weapons intelligence, suggesting that Iran may not be developing plans to use chemical weapons. They believe Israel is attempting to escalate tensions with the US and its partners. Regional officials stated that Israel presented Gulf countries with assessments indicating Iran was working to make its chemical weapons operational, but did not provide supporting evidence.

The intelligence comes amid heightened tensions between the US and Iran, with both sides exploring diplomatic options while preparing for potential military action. US Central Command has a plan for an attack on Iran that could be launched as early as November 4, one day after the US midterm elections. Three aircraft carriers are currently positioned in the region, with a preferred window for an attack expected to be brief.

However, President Trump has not yet authorized a large-scale strike, and diplomatic efforts to resolve the crisis continue.